(updated 5/12/2012)
A test in radiology is performed to temporarily block the shunt to see if a portal vein is present and to monitor pressure as the shunt is closed. If the portal vein is located, depending on the size and anatomy of the vein. It may be possible to permanately block or close the shunt and redirect flow through the portal vein. If the results indicate a higher presssure then the doctor is comfortable with, then the process may be done in stages to slowly expand the portal vein. A liver transplant may be another possible option that may be reviewed with your doctoor.
WHAT TO EXPECT BEFORE TREATMENT
The reaction of the liver to an uneven blood supply usually results in focal nodular hyperplasia. This is monitored yearly by checking alpha-fetoprotein levels to check for liver cancer and with a yearly CT scan.
Intelligence may be normal, but some may have a learning disability.
Limiting protein intake is advised in some circumstances.
Lactulose or Xifaxan (Rifaximin) can be used if there are signs of hyperammonemia.
QUESTIONS I HAVE
( My disclaimer because I know I should have one : I am NOT a medical person, I am just a mom with a blog.)
Should the following be considered possible symptoms of an Abernethy malformation:
- telangiectasias or hemangiomas
- difficulty with fine motor skills
- ADHD-related to attention and short term memory
- low grade hepatic encephalopathy
- Could HHT be listed as a possible symptom? (A liver shunt is a large AVM. When my child is hypoglycemic (low blood sugar) and has medical tests that require fasting, should she be on an IV of D5 (sugar solution) due to hyperammonemia?
Is organic food safer than non-organic food?
PEDIATRIC JOURNAL ARTICLE
Management and classification of type II congenital portosystemic shunts
